A preview of the Md. GOP's convention

Among the highlights: Larry Hogan will announce his plans

November 21, 2013

This weekend Maryland Republican central committee members, elected officials, candidates, activists and hangers on will gather in Annapolis for the semi-annual convention of the Maryland Republican Party. The event will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Annapolis, Maryland. There are plenty of details about the convention at the Maryland Republican Party’s website.

Friday night is highlighted by campaign training, a meeting of the state party’s executive board and, most importantly, hospitality suites and parties thrown by a wide array of Republican candidates and organizations. Most of these hospitality suites are free of charge and offer anyone a great opportunity to literally talk with elected officials, state party leaders and candidates over a beer or similar refreshment.

Two big news items should come out of this weekend’s convention.

First, Change Maryland founder Larry Hogan will be announcing his plans for 2014. It is widely anticipated that Mr. Hogan will announce a bid for the Republican nomination for Governor of Maryland. Mr. Hogan’s entry would radically change the landscape of the race as he leads a grassroots organization of nearly 70,000 Marylanders and has well established fund raising capabilities.

Also, the Maryland Republican Party will report its review of a proposal to allow unaffiliated voters to vote in Republican primaries. The proposal has gotten plenty of press, and it appears that state Republicans are split on the issue. There will be plenty of discussion and debate, although it is unlikely that party leaders will approve any changes for the 2014 election cycle.

Red Maryland will be covering the convention, as we have many such conventions in the past. We will also be broadcasting live Friday night from the event. During the broadcast we will be awarding the first annual Red Maryland Awards.